Faris Alrushud, Riyadh

A cultural exchange meeting between Saudi and Japanese youth has been staged in a bid to increase bonds of friendship between the two countries.

The event, part of the Salam project for civilizational communication launched three years ago, brought together a group of young Saudis with an interest in Japan and their Japanese counterparts living in the Kingdom.

As well as listening to presentations on cultural and social matters, the attendees took part in discussions and enjoyed entertainment activities.

The initiative aims to enhance understanding and communication between peoples through acceptance of other cultures, the promotion of common principles and values, and knowledge exchange.

So far, youth from 15 countries including the US, France, China, Brazil, Argentina, and Australia have participated in the program.

The meeting also offered the opportunity for the Japanese delegates to practice speaking Arabic.

Saudi attendee Navel Fawaz said he was pleased to see so many Japanese taking part in the event and wanting to learn about the Kingdom’s culture and history, adding that there were many young Saudis similar to him who were interested in Japanese culture and speaking the language.